Directed by
Tatsuya Ishihara
Made by
Eleven Arts
As the new academic year kicks off at Kitauji High School, Kumiko Ōmae begins her second year filled with excitement and uncertainty within the dynamic atmosphere of the school’s concert band. The introduction of fresh faces—first-year students Kanade Hisaishi, Mirei Suzuki, Satsuki Suzuki, and Motomu Tsukinaga—infuses the group with a sense of novelty and energy. Guided by the band’s president, Yūko Yoshikawa, Kumiko and fellow band member Tomoe Kabe take on the role of mentors to the newcomers, with aspirations of clinching the coveted gold at the national concert band competition. However, as they embark on this ambitious journey, Kumiko senses a noticeable divide between the seasoned upperclassmen and the enthusiastic new recruits.
A crucial turning point for the band occurs during the Sunrise Festival, where Mirei Suzuki expresses her disillusionment over what she perceives as frivolous behavior among her senior peers. In a moment of camaraderie, Kumiko, along with Kanade Hisaishi, encourages Mirei to rethink her stance, ultimately leading to a brilliant performance by the Kitauji High School Concert Band at the festival.
As practices ramp up, Noboru Taki, the band’s conductor, unveils the piece for the national competition, titled “March Sky Blue Dream,” as well as a free selection and an audition on the horizon. Kumiko finds herself balancing the demands of musicianship with her personal life, attending a prefectural festival with her boyfriend Shūichi Tsukamoto while also sharing anxieties about their impending third year of high school with Reina Kōsaka.
The pressure mounts when Tomoe Kabe announces her decision to withdraw from the competition to focus on managing the band. She confides in Kumiko about the struggles she’s facing due to inflammation in her temporomandibular joints, prompting her to reevaluate her position within the ensemble. Meanwhile, Kanade shares her frustrations regarding Natsuki Nakagawa, who has been reaching out for assistance despite their considerable age difference.
On the day of the audition, Natsuki’s keen observation skills pick up on Kanade’s evident lack of enthusiasm. In a heated confrontation, Kanade expresses her reluctance to participate, stating her desire to allow Natsuki to shine as she prepares for graduation. Kumiko steps in, referencing Kanade’s past experiences with former senior mentors, guiding her toward resolution. The audition culminates in a victory for Kumiko, Kanade, and Natsuki, their bond fortified through the challenges they faced.
As the Kitauji High School Concert Band undergoes a transformative journey under the guidance of their instructors, Mr. Taki, Satomi Nīyama, and others, they arrive at a pivotal moment. In an unexpected yet mature decision, Kumiko and Shūichi choose to part ways, redirecting their energies towards the band’s development. The stakes escalate as the competition heats up, leading to the Kansai band competition where alumni Kaori Nakaseko, Haruka Ogasawara, and Asuka Tanaka return to cheer for their beloved Kitauji High School Concert Band. Despite their determined efforts, they fall short of their national dreams, receiving a disappointing dud gold medal. The sting of defeat lingers as the band’s leaders gather to regroup and reassess their strategies. In a heartfelt conclusion, Kanade warmly welcomes Kumiko, who has now stepped into the role of the band’s president, signaling an exciting new chapter in her musical odyssey.
New Academic Year Begins
Kumiko Ōmae enters her second year at Kitauji High School with a mix of excitement and uncertainty. The atmosphere is vibrant as new first-year students join the concert band, setting the stage for new dynamics within the group.
Introduction of New Members
The concert band welcomes fresh faces, including first-year students Kanade Hisaishi, Mirei Suzuki, Satsuki Suzuki, and Motomu Tsukinaga. Kumiko and her peer, Tomoe Kabe, embrace their roles as mentors, eager to guide these newcomers toward success.
Ambitious Goals Set
With aspirations of winning gold at the national concert band competition, the band rallies together under the leadership of president Yūko Yoshikawa. However, Kumiko quickly feels the strain of contrasting experiences between the upperclassmen and enthusiastic newcomers.
Crisis at the Sunrise Festival
During the Sunrise Festival, tensions rise as Mirei Suzuki expresses her discontent with the perceived frivolity among senior band members. In an encouraging spirit, Kumiko and Kanade rally Mirei, helping her find renewed motivation as they prepare for their performance.
Piece Unveiling by Conductor
As rehearsals intensify, the band’s conductor, Noboru Taki, reveals the competition piece, 'March Sky Blue Dream.' This pivotal announcement marks a turn in the team's focus, setting them on a path towards rigorous practice and preparation.
Balancing Personal Life
Kumiko grapples with the dual demands of her musical commitments and personal life. She attends the prefectural festival with her boyfriend, Shūichi Tsukamoto, and discusses the challenges of their impending third year in high school with her friend Reina Kōsaka.
Tomoe's Withdrawal
The band faces a setback when Tomoe Kabe announces her withdrawal from the competition. Struggling with health issues, she confides in Kumiko, leading her to reassess her commitment and position within the band.
Conflict Among Band Members
A confrontation arises between Kanade Hisaishi and Natsuki Nakagawa during rehearsal. Kanade expresses her hesitation to participate due to a desire to let Natsuki shine, revealing the complexities of mentorship and competition within the band.
Resolution and Victory
Kumiko steps in to mediate the situation, drawing on her insights from past experiences. The audition concludes in triumph, solidifying the bond among Kumiko, Kanade, and Natsuki as they face challenges together.
Transformative Journey
Under the guidance of their instructors, the Kitauji High School Concert Band embarks on a journey of growth and transformation. This evolution tests their unity and dedication as they strive for excellence.
Kumiko's Difficult Decision
In a mature turn of events, Kumiko and Shūichi mutually decide to part ways, choosing to prioritize their individual growth and the band's development. This decision highlights their maturity and commitment to personal ambitions.
Kansai Band Competition
The stakes rise as the band participates in the Kansai competition, where they are cheered on by supportive alumni. Despite their hard work and enthusiasm, they face disappointment as they do not achieve their national dreams.
Reflecting on Defeat
After receiving a disappointing dud gold medal, the band’s leaders gather to regroup and reassess their strategies. This moment of reflection allows them to learn from their experience and plan for the future.
Kumiko Steps Up
In the fallout of the competition, Kanade warmly welcomes Kumiko, who is now stepping into the role of the band's president. This transition marks a new chapter in Kumiko’s musical journey and signifies her growth as a leader.
Kumiko Ōmae
Kumiko is a passionate and determined second-year student in the concert band. Taking on a leadership role, she navigates friendships and rivalries with a focus on the band's goals while also dealing with her own personal life.
Kanade Hisaishi
Kanade is a new first-year student who initially struggles with her role within the band, feeling overshadowed by her seniors. Her growth over the course of the story emphasizes her journey toward self-acceptance and confidence.
Noboru Taki
As the band's conductor, Noboru Taki plays a crucial role in guiding the students through their musical challenges. His leadership style inspires both confidence and hard work among the band members.
Tomoe Kabe
Tomoe is a dedicated upperclassman who grapples with personal setbacks but is committed to the band. Her decision to step back highlights the sacrifices musicians often make for their passion.
Time period
Current Academic Year
The movie unfolds during the current academic year, focusing on the transitions and challenges that students face as they embark on their second year. This time is marked by the excitement of new beginnings, music competitions, and personal growth.
Location
Kitauji High School
Kitauji High School is renowned for its vibrant concert band program, producing talented musicians each year. The dynamic atmosphere of the school enhances the student's journey as they navigate both academic and extracurricular challenges.
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Friendship
Friendship is a core theme as Kumiko and Kanade navigate the complexities of mentoring new band members. The bonds they form through shared struggles and successes highlight the importance of camaraderie in achieving collective goals.
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Ambition
Ambition drives the narrative as members of the Kitauji High School Concert Band work tirelessly towards the competition. Their dreams of clinching a gold medal push them to confront personal and collective challenges.
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Growth
Character growth is prominent as each band member learns from their experiences, both personal and musical. Kumiko's evolution into the band president marks a significant shift in her journey, showcasing maturity and leadership.
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